Chapter one

TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER1: INTRODUCTION:
1.1 History of CNC
1.1.1 Background
1.1.2 What is CNC?
1.2 Type of CNC machine
1.2.1 Types of CNC Machines by Type
1.2.2 Types of CNC Machines by Number of Coordinate Axes
1.2.3 Types of CNC Machines According to the Control System
1.3 Advantage and disadvantage
1.3.1 Advantage of CNC Machines
1.3.2 Disadvantage of CNC Machines
1.4 Different of NC, DNC, CNC
1.4.1 Numerical Control (NC)
1.4.2 CNC Machining
1.4.3 DNC
1.5 Types of control, codes M-G general (CAD, CAM, CAE)
1.5.1 CNC Controller Board Manufacturers in World
1.5.2 What are G Codes?
1.5.3 What is m code?
1.5.4 Difference between CAD/CAM/CAE

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 List of tables
No. Subject Page
Table 4-1 difference between NC, CNC, DNC 18

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 List of figures
No. Subject Page
Fig. 1.4 configuration of CNC machine control unites 15
Fig. 1.4 General configuration of a DNC system. 17
Connection to MCU is behind the tape reader.
Key: BTR = behind the tape reader, MCU =
machine control unit

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 NOMENCLATURE
Symbol Definition
CNC Computer numerical control
NC Numerical control
DNC Distributed numerical control
IBM
CAM Computer aided manufacturing
CAD Computer aided design
CAE Computer aided engineering

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 Chapter one
Introduction

1.1 History of CNC

1.1.1 Background

Computer numerical control (CNC) machine is the advanced version of the

conventional/old manual machine. The first manual metal working lathe was
invented in the year 1800 by Henry Maudslay, a British machine tool innovator and
inventor. In the beginning, the lathe machine was a simple machine which held the
work piece between two rigid and strong supports.

After the time period of the first metal cutting machine, manual machines became
little advanced but still needed the operator for its operation. Apart from this, these
machines have some problems such as inability to make complex shapes, causes
variation in dimensions, high scrap rate, fitting problem, wastage of raw material,
high production cost and machine run time. Despite this, we are not saying that
conventional/manual machine was not good. During that time, these machines were
the best ones.

Due to the above-mentioned drawbacks, during World War I and II the American Air
force faced some problems in equipment like the helicopter rotor blade and other
machine parts because the manually operated machine was unable to perform three-
dimensional complex operations as intended. In 1952, the Massachusetts Institute of
Technology (MIT) introduced the first semiautomatic NC machine with the support
of Mr. John T Parson and IBM. It was an American government funded project for
the American Air force. This initial machine solved the initial requirements of the
American Air force and gave revolutionary results to the manufacturing industry.
Numerical control (NC) machine was the design of the mechanical and electronics
technology. This NC machine performed its work perfectly and resolved maximum
machine related problems. These machines technology was the best machine
technology of that time. We can say these machines were the back bone of that time
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industry like aviation industry etc. But after development in machine technologies,
in the 1970s, Mr. John T Parson and the MIT together developed the first CNC
machine tools with the help of IBM. This CNC machine was fully automatic and
owns a computation system.

1.1.2 What is CNC?

CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. A CNC machine is a sophisticated

metal (material) removing computerized machine on which we can make any
complex shapes, which was not possible before, with high accuracy, repeatability,
better quality, less rejection and mass production. Before NC and CNC machine,
engineers cannot machine same product again and again with all the above qualities
[1].

1.2 Types of CNC Machines

1.2.1 Types of CNC Machines by Type

There are different CNC machine types. In this section, we’ll know a list of CNC
machine types and uses.
A. Mill CNC Machine
CNC milling machine types remove material from a workpiece and precisely
shape it to the required specifications using high-speed cutting tools.
B. Lathe CNC Machine
The way CNC lathe machines operate is by rotating the material of the
workpiece about a primary axis. The lathe cutting tools remove the material
from the workpiece and shape it as needed.
C. Drilling CNC Machine
The Drilling machine is one of the most popular CNC machines found in most
CNC machine shops. the drilling CNC machine uses a specialized cutting tool
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called drill bits or drill. It is ideal for drilling holes in many materials.
D. Grinding CNC Machine
This machine uses a grinding wheel to remove materials from a workpiece at
a very slow rate. The grinding machine types function primarily for sanding,
polishing, or finishing.
E. Laser Cutting CNC Machine
This CNC machine shapes products or parts using a highly focused laser
beam. The laser beam cuts through the materials to create the desired product
or shape.
F. Plasma Cutting CNC Machine
A CNC plasma cutting device produces a very precise cut. It ionizes the air
and melts the material in its path using an electrical discharge arc. The
procedure only works with electrically conductive materials since it involves
an electrical arc.
G. Waterjet Cutting CNC Machine
This machine cuts through materials using a thin jet of water. CNC water jet
cutting is one of the most adaptable processes due to its capacity to cut through
any material.
H. EDM (Electric Discharge Machine)
The EDM uses an electrical arc to remove materials from a workpiece. It
functions similarly to the plasma cutter. Besides, this machine produces parts
through a non-contact process, and machines parts regardless of hardness.
Nevertheless, this machine works only on conductive materials.
I. CNC Router Machine
CNC routers can cut a variety of forms and patterns on flat surfaces of any

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material.
J. Multi-Axis CNC Machine
This CNC machine can move in four or more directions or axes. it is more
complex and produces more accurate parts. It also offers machinists greater
machining flexibility.
K. 3D Printer
A 3D printer uses a digital file to create 3D solid objects. It is a process that
successively creates products by adding materials to each other
L. Press Brake Machines
is a mechanical tool powered by a hydraulic or electrical system, with an AI program
attached to it for precise and accurate bending on the raw material.
M. Punch Machines
is a sheet metal manufacturing process that is carried out by CNC punch presses.

1.2.2 Types of CNC Machines by Number of Coordinate Axes

A. 2-Axis CNC Machines

The most fundamental CNC systems available are 2-axis CNC machines. Machines
in this category move in the X-axis (horizontal) and Y-axis (Vertical). these machines
produce precise straight cuts, drill holes in boards, or process just one workpiece
surface without moving it.
B. 3-Axis CNC Machines
The most prevalent kind of CNC machine is the 3-axis machine. it's also works on
immobile workpieces. it moves in the conventional X and Y axis, with an additional
Z axis for depth.
C. 4-Axis CNC Machines
This machine has an A-axis, known as the axis of rotation, and the X, Y, and Z axes.
This axis enables the rotation of the cutting tool along the X-axis.

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 D. 5-Axis CNC Machines
5-axis CNC provides the cutting tool with a pivoting motion along an axis called the
C-axis. The C-axis is the axis on which turning. These machines can machine five
surfaces of material concurrently with the work surface remaining stationary, which
allows them to produce intricate and precise parts.

E. 7-Axis CNC Machines

On CNC machines in this category, there are seven axes: three conventional axes for
the workpiece’s rotation, three for the cutting tool’s movement, and one for the arm’s
rotation, known as the E-axis,
F. 9-Axis CNC Machines
A combined CNC system with a 5-axis milling machine and a 4-axis lathe machine.
The lathe completes the workpiece’s internal features, while the milling machine
works on the surface to achieve the necessary surface finish.
G. 12-Axis CNC Machines
The 12-axis machines have two cutting heads that can move in X, Y, Z, A, B, and C
axes. These machines increase production speed while also increasing precision by
orders of magnitude [3].

1.2.3 Types of CNC Machines According to the Control System

The basic principle of a CNC machine is to move the cutting tool and the workpiece
relative to each other. There are different ways in which tool repositioning works,
leading to three different types of CNC machines:
A. Point-to-Point Positioning Control
is the most basic type of computerized numerical control system. In this control
system, the cutting tool moves to a predefined point, after which the machining starts
around the predefined cutting point.

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 B. Straight Cut Positioning Control
A Straight Cut positioning control system can simultaneously reposition the cutting
tool and machine the workpiece. However, the movement occurs only in parallel to
one axis at a given time.
C. Contouring Path CNC System
It is the most expensive of all three positioning control systems and can create the
most intricate parts. This versatility can create curved surfaces [4].

1.3 Advantage and disadvantage

1.3.1 Advantage of CNC Machines:

A. Setup time reduction

In many cases, the setup time for a CNC machine can be reduced, sometimes quite
dramatically. It is important to realize that setup is a manual operation, greatly
dependent on the performance of CNC operator, the type of fixturing and general
practices of the machine shop.

To keep the setup time to a mini- mum should be one of the primary considerations
of any machine shop supervisor, programmer and operator. Because of the design of
CNC machines, the setup time should not be a major problem.

Modular fixturing, standard tooling, fixed locators, automatic tool changing, pallets
and other advanced features, make the setup time more efficient than a comparable
setup of a conventional machine. With a good knowledge of modern manufacturing,
productivity can be increased significantly. The number of parts machined under one
setup is also important, in order to assess the cost of a setup time. If a great number
of parts is machined in one setup, the setup cost per part can be very insignificant
[5].

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 B. Reduced lead time
The time between the receipt of a design drawing and manufacturer getting ready to
start production on the shop floor, including the time needed for planning, design
and manufacture of jigs, etc. is called lead time. Since special jige and fixtures are
often entirely eliminated in CNC machines, the whole of the time needed for their
design and manufacture is saved. Consider the position of two manufacturers, one
equipped with conventional machines and the other with CNC machine tools. For a
job requiring special jigs and fixtures and cutting tools, the manufacturing unit with
conventional machines will have to spend considerable time in design and
manufacture of special tooling before taking up the production of components
whereas the unit with CNC machines can start production within a short period of
the work being planned and material being available.

C. Estimation of operator’s error

The machine is controlled by programme of instructions stored in the memory of the
computer. The programme is checked before it goes to the machine so no errors will
occur in the job. Fatigue, boredom or inattention by an operator will not affect the
quality or duration of the machining.

D. Operator activity
The operator is relieved of tasks readily performed by the machine and is free to
attend to matters for which his skills and abilities are essential. Pre-setting of tools,
setting of components and preparation and planning of future jobs fall into this
category. It is possible for two work-stations to be prepared on a single machine
table, even with small batches. Two setting positions are used, and the operator can
set up one station while machining takes place at the other. The two jobs need not be
identical. Also, it is possible for one operator to attend to more than one CNC
machine at a time.

E. lower labor cost

Actual cutting time in the CNC machines is more than conventional machines since
the setting time, etc. are lower. Also, one operator can run two or more machines or
multiple pallet ma- chines are used resulting in reduced labor cost.

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 F. Smaller Batches
By the use of pre-set tooling and pre-setting techniques, downtime between batches
is kept at a minimum. Periodic machining of small batches is found to be economical
and brings about a rapid stock turnover. Larger storage facilities for work-in-
progress are not required. Machining centers eliminate some of the set-ups needed
for successive operations on one job and time spent in waiting until each machine
for successive operations is free. The components circulate round the machine shop
in a shorter period, interdepartmental transport costs are saved and 'Progress
Chasing' is reduced.

G. Longer tool life

Tools can be used at optimum speeds and feeds because these functions are
controlled by the part programme. Programmed speeds and feeds can be overridden
by the operator if difficulty in machining is encountered, for example, operator can
change the speed and feed if the material has different properties.

H. Elimination of Special Jigs and Fixtures

Standard locating fixtures are often not used on CNC machines, and cost of special
jigs and fixtures is frequently eliminated. The capital cost of jig storage facilities is
also reduced. The storage of a part programme is very simple matter, it may be kept
for many years and the manufacture of spare parts, repeat orders or re- placements
is made much more convenient.

I. Flexibility in Changes of Component Design

The modification or changes in component design can be readily accommodated by
re-programming and altering the concerned instructions. There are no jigs and
fixture to be altered, hence, savings are affected in time and cost.

J. Reduced Inspection
The time spent on inspection and in waiting for inspection to begin is greatly
reduced. Normally, it is necessary to inspect the first component only. If there is any
difference in the dimensions of the machined component, the programme is checked
and corrected, if needed.

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 K. Less scarp
Since the operator errors are eliminated; a proven part programme results in an
accurate component. However, tool set- tings, as in a boring bar, do not come under
the control of the part programme and periodic checks must be made to ensure that
the settings remain correct. Drill or tap breakages are not unknown, but since the
tools are operating under controlled optimum conditions, the incidence of breakages
should be very small.

L. Accurate Costing and Scheduling

In CNC machines, the time taken in machining is predictable, consistent and results
in a greater accuracy in estimating and more consistency in costing. Consistent
operation enables the accurate compilation of shop loading schedules and thus
results in a balanced loading and a more predictable output.

1.3.2 Disadvantage of CNC Machines:

A. Higher Investment Cost

CNC machine tools represent a more sophisticated and complex technology. This
technology costs more to buy than its non - CNC counterpart. The higher cost
requires manufacturing management to use these machines more aggressively than
ordinary equipment. High machine utilization is essential in order to get reasonable
returns on investment, Machine shops must operate their CNC machines two or three
shifts per day to achieve this high utilization.

B. Higher Maintenance Cost

Because CNC is a more complex technology and machines are used harder, the
maintenance problem becomes more acute.

C. Costlier CNC Personnel

Certain aspects of CNC machine operations require a higher skill level than
conventional operations. Part programming and CNC maintenance are two areas
where personnel with the required skill are in short supply, The problems of finding,
hiring and training these people must be considered a disadvantage to the CNC shop.

D. Planned Support Facility

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Since most of the preparatory work for CNC operation is done away from the
machine, planned support facilities will be essential e.g. part programming, tape
preparation and tool pre-setting are fundamental services that must be considered.
However, the advantages of CNC systems outweigh the disadvantages considerably
and the CNC machines have been widely accepted by the industry, CNC is being
used in drilling, turning, boring, milling and grinding machines. In addition to metal
re- moving operations, CNC is used on machines like pipe bending, coil winding,
flame cutting, welding, wire-cut EDM and many other areas [6].

1.4 Different Between DNC, CNC, NC

1.4.1 Numerical control (NC):

Is a form of programmable automation in which the mechanical actions of a machine

tool or other equipment are controlled by a program containing coded alphanumeric
data. The alphanumeric data represent relative positions between a work head and a
work part as well as other instructions needed to operate the machine. The work head
is a cutting tool or other processing apparatus, and the work part is the object being
processed. When the current job is completed, the program of instructions can be
changed to process a new job. The capability to change the program makes NC
suitable for low and medium production. It is much easier to write new programs
than to make major alterations in the processing equipment.

Basic Components of an NC System: an NC system consists of three basic

components: (1) a part program of instructions, (2) a machine control unit, and (3)
processing equipment. The part program is the set of detailed step-by-step
commands that direct the actions of the processing equipment. In machine tool
applications, the person who prepares the program is called a part programmer. In
these applications, the individual commands refer to positions of a cutting tool
relative to the worktable on which the work part is fixtured.

Additional instructions are usually included, such as spindle speed, feed rate, cutting
tool selection, and other functions. The program is coded on a suitable medium for
submission to the machine control unit.

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1.4.2 CNC machining

Is the process of using a computer-driven machine tool to produce a part out of solid
material in a different shape, depends on digital instructions usually made on
Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) or Computer Aided Design (CAD) software
like SolidWorks or MasterCAM. The software writes G-code that the controller on
the CNC machine can read. The computer program on the controller interprets the
design and moves cutting tools and/or the workpiece on multiple axes to cut the
desired shape from the workpiece.

the CNC Machine Control Unit: the MCU is the hardware that distinguishes CNC
from conventional NC, The MCU consists of the following components and
subsystems: (1) central processing unit, (2) memory, (3) I/O interface, (4) controls
for machine tool axes and spindle speed, and (5) sequence controls for other machine
tool functions. These subsystems are interconnected by means of a system bus,
which communicates data and signals among the components of the network

Figure 1 configuration of CNC machine control unites

Central Processing Unit (CPU):

The Central Processing Unit is the brain of the Machine Control Unit (MCU). It
manages the other components in the MCU based on software contained in main
memory. The CPU can be divided into three sections:
1. Control section
2. Arithmetic-Logic Unit (ALU)
3. Immediate access memory

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Memory
The immediate access memory in the CPU is not intended for storing CNC software.
A much greater storage capacity is required for the various programs and data needed
to operate the CNC system. As with most other computer systems, CNC memory
can be divided into two categories:
1. Main memory
2. Secondary memory

Input/Output Interface:
The I/O interface provides communication between the various components of the
CNC system, other computer systems, and the machine operator. As its name
suggests, the I/O interface transmits and receives data and signals to and from
external devices. The operator control panel is the basic interface by which the
machine operator communicates with the CNC system

Controls for Machine Tool Axes and Spindle Speed:

These are hardware components that control the position and velocity (feed rate) of
each machine axis as well as the rotational speed of the machine tool spindle. Control
signals generated by the MCU must be converted to a form and power level suited
to the particular position control systems used to drive the machine axes.

Sequence Controls for Other Machine Tool Functions:

In addition to control of table position, feed rate, and spindle speed, several
additional functions are accomplished under part program control. These auxiliary
functions generally involve on/off (binary) actuations, interlocks, and discrete
numerical data. The functions include cutting fluid control, fixture clamping,
emergency warnings, and interlock communications for robot loading and unloading
of the machine tool.

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1.4.3 DNC:

A system was developed in which machine tools were controlled by a remote

mainframe computer that transmitted instructions to a machine control unit (MCU)
in real time. The first model of this system was demonstrated in 1966. General
Electric and Cincinnati Milling Machine were pioneers in the development of direct
numerical control (DNC). In the 1970s, with the development of integrated circuit
technology, it became possible to use dedicated computers as controllers, and this
system was later called computer numerical control (CNC). This section describes
two approaches: (1) direct numerical control and (2) distributed numerical control

DNC Components:
The system consisted of four components: (1) central computer, (2) bulk memory at
the central computer site, (3) set of controlled machines, and (4) telecommunications
lines to connect the machines to the central computer [7].

Figure 2 General configuration of a DNC system. Connection to MCU is behind the tape reader. Key: BTR = behind the tape
reader, MCU = machine control unit

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 Summary compare:
Table 4-1 difference between NC, CNC, DNC

1. Numerical 2. Computer 3. Direct Numerical 4. (DNC) (Modern

Control (NC): Numerical Control (DNC): Context):
Control (CNC):
Definition: NC - Definition: - Definition: DNC is - Definition: In
refers to a system CNC is a more a centralized control modern usage, DNC
in which machine advanced system system where a also refers to
tools are controlled that uses a single computer Distributed
by a program computer to (often a mainframe) Numerical Control,
stored on physical control machine controls multiple where part
media like punched tools. Programs CNC machines by programs are stored
tape. The are stored sending programs in on a central server
instructions are fed digitally in the real time. but downloaded to
into the machine in machine’s individual CNC
- Control: The
a sequence. memory and machines for
central computer
executed execution.
- Control: The sends the part
automatically.
control is done programs directly to - Control:
through hardwired - Control: The the CNC machines in Machines execute
logic and machine has an real-time, rather than the programs
electromechanical onboard computer the program being locally after
devices that read (CPU) that stored locally on downloading from
instructions from interprets and each machine. the server, which
punched tapes. runs the program allows for more
- Storage: The part
stored in its independence than
- Storage: No programs are stored
memory. Direct Numerical
internal storage for on the central
Control.
part programs. - Storage: computer and
Each operation Internal memory, transmitted to - Storage: Part
requires a new allowing easy machines as needed. programs are stored
punched tape with reuse and Machines do not both centrally (on
the program for modification store the programs the server) and
that task. without physical independently. locally (on the
media like tapes. machines), ensuring

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- Technology: - Technology: - Technology: more flexibility in
Developed in the Emerged in the Developed in the late operation.
1940s and 1950s, 1970s with the 1960s and early
- Technology:
relying on analog development of 1970s. Utilized
Common in today’s
systems and microprocessors mainframe
manufacturing
mechanical and integrated computers and large
setups with
components. circuits. networks of CNC
networked CNC
machines.
- Flexibility: - Flexibility: machines.
Limited flexibility, Highly flexible. - Flexibility: More
- Flexibility:
as any Programs can be flexible than NC but
Highly flexible, as
modification easily modified, less flexible than
programs can be
requires creating a uploaded, and modern CNC
easily distributed,
new punched tape. stored in the systems because
modified, and
machine or a machines still rely on
- Reliability: Less executed across
computer the central computer
reliable due to multiple machines.
network. for instructions.
mechanical wear
- Reliability: More
and complexity of - Reliability: - Reliability:
reliable than earlier
physical media like More reliable than Reliable as long as
DNC systems as the
tapes. NC, with fewer the central computer
machines can
mechanical is functioning; if the
continue to operate
components mainframe fails, all
independently after
involved and connected machines
receiving the part
higher accuracy. stop.
programs
- Additional - Usage: DNC is
Features: CNC useful in large
machines offer manufacturing
high precision, facilities where many
can execute machines are
complex controlled from a
operations, and central location.
integrate with
CAD/CAM
systems.

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1.5 types of control

1.5.1 CNC Controller Board Manufacturers in World

• FANUC – Japan
• Siemens – German
• HuazhongCNC – China
• Heidenhain – Germany
• Mazak – Japan
• Mitsubishi – Japan
• Haas – America
• Fagor – Spain
• NUM – France
• Bosch Rexroth – German

1.5.2 What are G Codes?

Generally, G-codes are used in CNC programming for machining of different profile
like turning, boring, facing, step turning, threading, chamfer, radius profile, profile
turning etc. G-codes are used with numerical numbers like G01, G02, G21, etc. We
can say, these codes are used in material removing operations, parameter settings
and tool geometry offsets, etc.
G Codes are of Two Types
Model Command
G codes of this group will be effective in CNC program until replaced by another G
code or another G code will not activate. Examples G01, G00, etc.
Non-Model Command
G codes of this group are effective only once when it is used or when it occurs. It
will not effective in the next line, if it is not used again. Examples G02, G03, G04,
etc [1].

Addresses
N refers to the block number
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G refers to the G code (Preparatory function).
X refers to the absolute distance travelled by the slide tool in the X axis direction.
U refers to the incremental distance travelled by the slide tool in the X axis direction.
Z refers to the absolute distance travelled by the slide tool in the Z axis direction.
W refers to the incremental distance travelled by the slide tool in the Z axis direction.
F refers to the feed rate.
M refers to the M code (Miscellaneous function).
S refers to the spindle speed.
T refers to the tooling management.

Summary of G-Codes
GOO / Rapid positioning
GOl /Linear interpolation
G02 /Clockwise circular/helical interpolation
G03 /Counterclockwise circular/helical interpolation
G04 /Dwell
G I O /Coordinate system origin setting
G12 /Clockwise circular pocket
G13 /Counterclockwise circular pocket
G15/G16 /Polar coordinate moves in GOO and GOl
G17 /XY plane select
G18 /XZ plane select
G19 /YZ plane select
G20/G21 Inch/millimeter unit
G28 /Return home
G28.1/ Reference axes
G30 /Return home
G31 /Straight probe
G40 /Cancel cutter radius compensation
G41/G42 /Start cutter radius compensation left/right
G43 /Apply tool length offset (plus)
G49 /Cancel tool length offset
G50 /Reset all scale factors to 1.0
G51 /Set axis data input scale factors
G52 /Temporary coordinate system offsets
G53 /Move in absolute machine coordinate system
G54 /Use fixture offset 1

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G55 /Use fixture offset 2
G56-58/ Use fixture offset 3, 4, 5
G59 /Use fixture offset 6/use general fixture number
G61/G64/ Exact stop/Constant velocity mode
G68/G69 /Coordinate system rotation
G73 /Canned cycle - peck drilling
G80 /Cancel motion mode (including canned cycles)
G81/ Canned cycle - drilling
G82 /Canned cycle - drilling with dwell
G83 /Canned cycle - peck drilling
G85 /Canned cycle - boring, no dwell, feed out
G86 /Canned cycle - boring, spindle stop, rapid out
G88 /Canned cycle - boring, spindle stop, manual out
G89 /Canned cycle - boring, dwell, feed out
G90 /Absolute distance mode
G91 /Incremental distance mode
G92 /Offset coordinates and set parameters
G92.X /Cancel G92 etc.
G93 /Inverse time feed mode
G94 /Feed per minute mode
G95 /Feed per rev mode
G98 /Initial level return after canned cycles
G99 /R-point level return after canned cycles.

1.5.3 What is m code?

The “M” references miscellaneous or machine code, and covers all the major
instructions not covered by the G-code. Rather than geometric alphanumeric
movements, M-codes instruct the CNC machine to start and stop certain actions or
programs outside the G-code’s domain.

These instructions include when to use coolant, when to open the machine doors,
when to change the direction the spindle spins in, or to change tools.
M Code Meaning
MO: Program stops
Ml: Optional program stops
M2: Program end

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M3/4: Rotate spindle clockwise/counterclockwise
M5: Stop spindle rotation
M6: Tool change (by two macros)
M7: Mist coolant on
M8: Flood coolant on
M9: All coolant off
M30: Program end and rewind
M47: Repeat program from first line
M48: Enable speed and feed override
M49: Disable speed and feed override
M98: Call subroutine
M99: Return from subroutine/repeat [8].

1.5.4 Difference between CAD/CAM/CAE

What is CAD Software?

Engineers and draftsmen use computer-aided design software to create illustrations
or 3D models. While most engineers should be proficient with CAD, the amount of
time they spend using it may depend on their specific role and level of experience.
For example, in some environments, designers may be responsible for creating the
initial design in a CAD program, while analysis and release engineers will review
and analyze it to make sure there are no errors

Best CAD Software for Engineers

Which CAD software tool is used can vary based on an engineer’s specialty, the
industry they work in or specific employer requirements. There are a variety of
highly specialized tools, with some software designed for specific industries. A few
of the popular CAD tools for professional engineers include:
• AutoCAD
• Inventor
• CATIA
• Fusion 360
• NX Core Designer

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 • SolidWorks
• Creo 10
A 2023 report from market research firm Grand View Research also highlights the
growing trend of utilizing cloud-based CAD software, or outsourcing certain design
projects. However, the company expects continued demand for 3D CAD software
due to growing adoption of 3D printing. If outsourcing portions of design becomes
more commonplace, engineers will likely be more focused on providing conceptual
design ideas and interfacing with vendors to review final designs.

What is CAM Software?

Computer-aided Manufacturing (CAM) is commonly defined as the use of software

to automate manufacturing processes. CAM software is able to translate CAD
designs into instructions for machines, increasing the efficiency of producing parts
and optimizing the amount of materials used.
Best CAM Software
Because CAM is so intertwined with CAD, some software companies produce both
types of applications. SolidWorks, for example, offers a full-suite of tools for CAD,
CAM and other engineering processes. Similarly, companies like AutoDesk offer
combined CAD and CAM tools. Some of the leaders in CAM software include:
• SolidWorks CAM
• Fusion 360
• NX CAM
• SolidEdge
• CAMWorks
• Mastercam

What is CAE Software?

Computer-aided engineering refers to the use of software to simulate the effects of

different conditions on the design of a product or structure using simulated loads and
constraints. CAE tools are often used to analyze and optimize the designs created
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within CAD software. Major categories of CAE tools include finite element analysis
(FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and multi-disciplinary design
optimization (MDO). These tools are used to perform design iterations using virtual
prototypes (sometimes called “digital twins”) prior to building physical prototypes.
This saves companies significant time and money in product development while
often yielding higher quality designs that meet multi-disciplinary and multi-
functional requirements.
CAE Software Leaders
There are dozens of CAE software tools used within the field of engineering. A few
of the leaders include:
• Ansys Fluent
• NX Advanced Simulation
• SimScale
• Inventor
• HyperWorks
• LS-DYNA
• MATLAB Simulink
The best CAE product choice will depend to some extent on the skills you want to
build and your specific career path. For example, niche products like OpenFOAM
are open source, which can provide a great deal of flexibility. However, many users
feel the software could be improved because it relies solely on a command line and
has no graphical user interface (GUI) [9].

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References:
1. Pawan Negi ،Mangey Ram ،Om Prakash Yadav“ Basics of CNC
Programming” ,2019
2. M. Sheen, NC Machining: Precision, Process, and Tools
Explained, Power publishing, 2024
3. Types of CNC Machining Jeff Jaje Autodesk
4. James Madison, CNC Machining Handbook, Industrial Press, 1996
5. Peter smid ‘CNC programming handbook’, second edition, 2003
6. B. S. Pabla ،M. Adithan ‘CNC Machines’, first edition ,2005
7. Groover, M. P. Automation, Production Systems, and Computer-
Integrated Manufacturing. Fourth edition,2007.
8. Alan Overby, CNC machine,2010.
9. Michigan State University

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